Up&Ap: How Maggie Ward is redefining social media marketing for the modern-day consumer

Last month, Maggie Ward went full-time running her own social media management business. Rather than using bots or unethical tactics, she boosts social media engagement by providing a personal touch to potential followers. Her goal is to redefine the social media marketing industry with the modern-day consumer in mind.

What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?

I’ve always had a passion for social media. When my last job was not encouraging me to do what I loved, I decided to do what I love full-time, on my own.

Tell us about your business.

At Social Maggie, I specialize in Instagram, but I also run Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Twitter, and more for small businesses. While I offer monthly social media management packages, I also provide “Engagement Hours” which consists of my targeting and interacting with potential followers… minus the hassle of annoying comment, like, and follow bots.

Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?

My engagement hours are $60 each, but I am currently running a contest where you can win a free hour of Instagram engagement. To enter, follow @socialmaggieIG and tag a lady boss in the comments!

List awards/certifications/accomplishments.

I’ve run social media for photographers, chiropractors, travel agents, a school district, and more.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing.

I also run my own photography business.

Where is your business based?

South Carolina, but I work with clients all over the world.

What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?

Quitting. No, seriously! I put in my two week notice on a whim and without any preparation. Within 24 hours, I had a website up and business cards on the way. I updated all of my social media accounts, pushed for referrals, and had 2 clients within the first week.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?

Referrals, referrals, referrals! I partner with other “outsourcers,” such as web designers, accountants, videographers, virtual assistants, and more, to build each other up.

I also use Facebook to find businesses who are not using social media to their full advantage. I contact them and give them my tips and suggestions for their business.

I also run an Instagram account dedicated entirely to giving free social media advice for businesses.

What have been your biggest challenges so far?

Turning down clients. I told myself from day one, “I quit my job to do what I love with people I love. If I don’t have a passion for my client’s business, I have to turn the offer down.”

How did you overcome these challenges?

When I’m offered a large amount, it’s difficult to say “no,” but having nothing but clients I adore has been so worth it!

How do you keep motivated through difficult times?

My mom is always there for me. I also often take breaks from my work (especially on the weekends) so I can refocus on why I love what I do. I also love some time with Jesus… or Netflix (hey, hey The Office).

How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?

I’m the only social media manager I know who does what I do. Rather than following and unfollowing hundreds of people, I target and follow people who I plan to create relationships with. Rather than using comment bots, I leave genuine comments on photos. Rather than using apps that may cause your account to be blocked, I post all of the content by hand.

If you hire my competitor, you’re hiring a social media manager who uses apps and websites to get the job done. If you hire me, you’re hiring a friend, mentor, and fellow creative who wants to see you succeed.

What is the best advice you have received recently?

Don’t become discouraged when your friends just don’t get it.1 I may miss parties, have to skip weekend getaways, or not be able to Facetime during the day, but it’s worth it for me.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?

Set daily, monthly, and annual goals. I’m already reaching my goals quicker than expected, but I never would have if I hadn’t defined them to begin with.

What are your favorite business tools/resources and why?

www.creativelive.com without a doubt! Not only do they sell online seminars for creatives, but they stream multiple for free each day. When I’m bored or multitasking, I leave a class on in the background.

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